Albert Kahn Associates Welcomes Filza Walters as Director of Mechanical Engineering
Albert Kahn Associates is proud to announce Filza Walters, FASHRAE, FESD as our new Director of Mechanical Engineering. Walters brings a distinctive blend of teaching, facilities management, and engineering leadership that will strengthen Kahn’s integrated practice and energize the firm’s commitment to designing for the future.
A Career Rooted in Education and Leadership
Walters joins Kahn after nearly two decades in academia, where she taught architectural engineering at several leading universities. Her career in higher education was driven by a deep respect for the power of knowledge, instilled by her family’s lifelong dedication to learning. She not only inspired countless students to pursue careers in engineering but also helped advance architectural engineering programs nationwide.
Her professional foundation is equally significant. Early in her career, Walters served as a Facilities Project Manager at Wayne State University, overseeing complex building projects and gaining valuable insight into the challenges faced by owners and operators. This dual perspective, balancing theory with practice and education with execution, has shaped her approach to leadership.
“As an educator and practitioner, I have always believed in blending collaboration, innovation, and service,” Walters says. “Joining Kahn is a natural progression, a chance to live the values I have shared with students for years while working alongside some of the most talented professionals in our industry.”
Building on a Strong Foundation
The transition of leadership in the mechanical engineering department reflects the firm’s ongoing investment in both people and practice. Walters take the reins from Johannes Palm, P.E., who has served as Director of Mechanical Engineering while also leading the firm as Chief Operating Officer. With his focus now centered on his COO responsibilities, Walters will take on the director role, continuing the strong expertise of the department’s depth and breath, adding her own perspective as a mentor, teacher, and leader.
“Filza’s mentorship and leadership will bring a fresh dimension to our already outstanding mechanical engineering team,” says Palm. “She has a unique ability to cultivate talent and build culture, and I know our group will thrive under her guidance.”
Returning to Practice at a Historic Firm
Kahn’s integrated model of architecture and engineering was a significant draw for Walters. The opportunity to lead a team that shapes mechanical systems, the often “hidden in plain sight” drivers of comfort, health, and performance in the built environment, comes at a pivotal moment in both the firm’s history and the city of Detroit’s resurgence.
“This year, Albert Kahn Associates celebrates 130 years of practice,” Walters says. “It is exciting to be part of a leadership team that is carrying forward such a profound legacy, and to do so in a city experiencing its own renaissance.”
Her vision for the mechanical engineering team is grounded in advancing sustainable, people-centered design. Walters is passionate about the role mechanical systems play in creating environments that are energy efficient, resilient, and responsive to evolving client needs. “Considering the number of hours people spend in buildings, we have an obligation to create environments to help our clients thrive,” she explains. “That responsibility continues to motivate me every day.”
A Shared Excitement for the Future
Firm President & CEO Kim Montague, FAIA sees Walters’ arrival as a continuation of the strong culture and practice already in place, while adding exciting new energy.
“Filza brings an inspiring blend of technical expertise, mentorship, and leadership,” Montague says. “Her passion for people and her ability to nurture growth will be a tremendous benefit to our clients, our projects, and especially our mechanical engineering team. We are thrilled to welcome her to Kahn.”
Looking Ahead
Walters is eager to blend her academic insight, professional practice, and leadership experience to help shape the future of Kahn’s engineering practice. “This is an exciting and crucial time for firms with strong legacies and bold visions,” she says. “I am honored to join Albert Kahn Associates, to lead a talented team, and to contribute to designing environments that will stand ready for the future.”